A zero-day exploit, 0-day, or zero-day flaw is a vulnerability in an operating system, software, or hardware that is exploited the same day it is discovered. These flaws become known to the public when a malware program exploits the flaw and compromises the product, computer, or network connected to the computer. These exploits can cause serious issues and keep a system vulnerable until the company releases a fix.
Computer slang, Security terms, Threat, ZERT
To help protect against zero-day exploits, use an intrusion detection system and set up network access control to prevent unauthorized access to your network.
Related information
- How does a computer get infected with a virus or spyware?
- How to protect yourself while on the Internet.
- Wired’s one-stop guide to zero-day exploits.
- Computer security help and support.